Writing poetry (loosely defined as concentrated language, "language with a little luck in it," metaphorical and image-rich language) can be a deeply satisfying way to consider and name one's own experience in and of the world. In this class, we will read poems and other writings that call us to this kind of attention, and write our own poems and short prose pieces. We will share our work, encouraging each writer to find her/his own way through the thicket of self-discovery. Writers of all levels of experience are welcome; we are all on the same path.

Wendy McVicker has over 20 years of experience as a teaching poet; in schools, prisons, libraries, art centers and hospitals. She is a member of the Ohio Arts Council's Arts Learning program. She has worked with people of varying abilities and most ages. Her poetry has appeared in small journals (most recently, Riverwind) and in the collection, Red Thread Gold Thread (ed. Alan Cohen).

To sign up contact ARTS/West weekdays 10am-4pm at 740/592-4315or email us at artswestathens@gmail.com

Mission

ARTS/Westis a part of the City of Athens' Arts, Parks and Recreation Department. Our mission is to make facilities, resources, and opportunities available to art organizations, individual artists, and community residents. We

harness community focus for all individuals engaged in the creation, performance and exhibition of the arts, while promoting activities preserving the beauty, heritage, and the culture of our town. ARTS/Weststrives to provide premier facilities, instructors, programming, and technical equipment for the performing and visual arts in our community.

The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Special thanks to the Athens Community Music Festival, the Athens Foundation, the Athens County and Convention Visitor’s Bureau and the Kleinpenny Education Foundation for their support.